Poetry of Dr. Shankar D Mishra: JULIUS CAESAR, ACT IV, SCENE I: Evergreen Page: 144 to 146 GLOSSARY, SUMMARY & QUESTION-ANSWERS

JULIUS CAESAR, ACT IV, SCENE I: Evergreen Page: 144 to 146

Antony: These many, then, shall die; their names are prick’d…………Octavius: Millions of mischiefs.

Glossary:

prick'd: marked or written down for punishment or death / दण्ड या मृत्यु के लिए नाम लिखना / ଦଣ୍ଡ ବା ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ପାଇଁ ନାମ ଲେଖିବା
consent: agree or give permission / ସମ୍ମତ ହେବା / ସମ୍ମତି ଦେବା
prick him down: write his name on the list of those to be killed / ଯାହାଙ୍କୁ ମାରିବାକୁ ହେବ ତାଙ୍କ ତାଲିକାରେ ନାମ ଲେଖ / ଯେଉଁମାନଙ୍କୁ ହତ୍ୟା କରାଯିବ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ତାଲିକାରେ ନାମ ଲେଖିବା
upon condition: on the condition that / ଏହି ସର୍ତ୍ତରେ / ଏହି ସର୍ତ୍ତରେ
Publius: Lepidus’s relative who is to be killed / ଲେପିଡସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ସମ୍ପର୍କୀୟ, ଯାହାକୁ ହତ୍ୟା କରାଯିବ / ଲେପିଡସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ସମ୍ପର୍କୀୟ, ଯାହାଙ୍କୁ ହତ୍ୟା କରାଯିବ
spot: mark or identify / ଚିହ୍ନିତ କରିବା / ଚିହ୍ନଟ କରିବା
damn: condemn or sentence to punishment/death / ଦୋଷୀ ଘୋଷଣା କରି ଦଣ୍ଡ ଦେବା / ଦୋଷୀ ଘୋଷଣା କରି ଦଣ୍ଡ ଦେବା
fetch: go and bring / ଯାଇ ଆଣିବା / ଯାଇ ଆଣିବା
will: a legal document stating how a person's property is to be distributed after death / ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ପରେ ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ବଣ୍ଟନ ସମ୍ବନ୍ଧୀୟ ଆଇନଗତ ଦଲିଲ / ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ପରେ ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ବଣ୍ଟନ ସମ୍ବନ୍ଧୀୟ ଆଇନଗତ ଦଲିଲ
hither: to this place / ଏହି ସ୍ଥାନକୁ / ଏହି ସ୍ଥାନକୁ
determine: decide / ନିଷ୍ପତ୍ତି ନେବା / ନିଷ୍ପତ୍ତି ନେବା
cut off: reduce or remove / କମାଇବା ବା ହଟାଇବା / କମାଇବା ବା ହଟାଇବା
charge: expense or amount of money to be paid / ଖର୍ଚ୍ଚ / ଖର୍ଚ୍ଚ
legacies: gifts or property left to people in a will / ଇଚ୍ଛାପତ୍ରରେ ଦିଆଯାଇଥିବା ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ବା ଉପହାର / ଇଚ୍ଛାପତ୍ରରେ ଦିଆଯାଇଥିବା ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ବା ଉପହାର
slight: unimportant or insignificant / ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱହୀନ / ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱହୀନ
unmeritable: undeserving of honour or reward / ସମ୍ମାନ ବା ପୁରସ୍କାର ପାଇବାକୁ ଅଯୋଗ୍ୟ / ସମ୍ମାନ ବା ପୁରସ୍କାର ପାଇବାକୁ ଅଯୋଗ୍ୟ
meet: suitable or fit / ଉପଯୁକ୍ତ / ଉପଯୁକ୍ତ
errands: short journeys made to perform a task / କୌଣସି କାମ ପାଇଁ କରାଯାଉଥିବା ଛୋଟ ଯାତ୍ରା / କୌଣସି କାମ ପାଇଁ କରାଯାଉଥିବା ଛୋଟ ଯାତ୍ରା
three-fold world: the world divided into three parts or shares / ତିନି ଭାଗରେ ବିଭକ୍ତ ଜଗତ / ତିନି ଭାଗରେ ବିଭକ୍ତ ଜଗତ
share: portion or part / ଅଂଶ / ଭାଗ
voice: opinion or vote / ମତ ବା ଭୋଟ / ମତ ବା ଭୋଟ
proscription: official order condemning a person to death or exile / କାହାକୁ ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ବା ନିର୍ବାସନ ଦଣ୍ଡ ଦେବାର ଆଧିକାରିକ ଆଦେଶ / କାହାକୁ ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ବା ନିର୍ବାସନ ଦଣ୍ଡ ଦେବାର ସରକାରୀ ଆଦେଶ
honours: positions of respect, authority or distinction / ସମ୍ମାନଜନକ ପଦବୀ ବା ମର୍ଯ୍ୟାଦା / ସମ୍ମାନଜନକ ପଦବୀ ବା ମର୍ଯ୍ୟାଦା
divers: various or several / ବିଭିନ୍ନ / ବିଭିନ୍ନ
slanderous: insulting or damaging to someone's reputation / ମାନହାନିକାରକ / ମାନହାନିକାରକ
loads: burdens / ଭାର / ବୋଝ
ass: donkey / ଗଧ / ଗଧ
groan: make a deep sound expressing pain or difficulty / କଷ୍ଟରେ କରାହିବା / କଷ୍ଟରେ କରାହିବା
sweat: produce perspiration through hard work or effort / ପରିଶ୍ରମରେ ଝାଳ ବାହାରିବା / ପରିଶ୍ରମରେ ଝାଳ ବାହାରିବା
treasure: valuable possessions or wealth / ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି / ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି
turn him off: dismiss or send him away / ତାଙ୍କୁ ବିଦାୟ କରିଦେବା / ତାଙ୍କୁ ବିଦାୟ କରିଦେବା
commons: common land where animals could graze / ସାଧାରଣ ଚରାଗାହ / ସାଧାରଣ ଚରାଗାହ
tried: tested by experience / ପରୀକ୍ଷିତ / ପରୀକ୍ଷିତ
valiant: brave and courageous / ସାହସୀ ଓ ବୀର / ସାହସୀ ଓ ବୀର
store: a supply of something / ପ୍ରଚୁର ଯୋଗାଣ / ପ୍ରଚୁର ଯୋଗାଣ
provender: food for animals, especially horses / ପଶୁମାନଙ୍କର ଖାଦ୍ୟ / ପଶୁମାନଙ୍କର ଖାଦ୍ୟ
creature: living being or animal / ଜୀବ ବା ପଶୁ / ଜୀବ ବା ପଶୁ
corporal: relating to the body / ଶରୀର ସମ୍ବନ୍ଧୀୟ / ଶରୀର ସମ୍ବନ୍ଧୀୟ
motion: movement / ଗତି ବା ଚଳନ / ଗତି ବା ଚଳନ
govern'd: controlled / ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରିତ / ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରିତ
spirit: mind, will or inner power / ମନ, ଇଚ୍ଛା ବା ଆନ୍ତରିକ ଶକ୍ତି / ମନ, ଇଚ୍ଛା ବା ଆଭ୍ୟନ୍ତରୀଣ ଶକ୍ତି
barren-spirited: lacking energy, ability or initiative / ଉତ୍ସାହ ବା ଯୋଗ୍ୟତାର ଅଭାବ ଥିବା / ଉତ୍ସାହ ବା ଯୋଗ୍ୟତାର ଅଭାବ ଥିବା
abjects: worthless or rejected things / ନିକୃଷ୍ଟ ବା ତ୍ୟାଜ୍ୟ ବସ୍ତୁ / ନିକୃଷ୍ଟ ବା ତ୍ୟାଜ୍ୟ ବସ୍ତୁ
orts: scraps or leftover pieces of food / ଖାଦ୍ୟର ଅବଶିଷ୍ଟ ଟୁକୁଡ଼ା / ଖାଦ୍ୟର ଅବଶିଷ୍ଟ ଟୁକୁଡ଼ା
imitations: copies of things made to resemble the originals / ନକଲ ବା ଅନୁକରଣ / ନକଲ ବା ଅନୁକରଣ
staled: made old, dull or no longer fresh / ପୁରୁଣା ବା ନିଷ୍ପ୍ରଭ ହୋଇଯାଇଥିବା / ପୁରୁଣା ବା ନିଷ୍ପ୍ରଭ ହୋଇଯାଇଥିବା
property: something owned or controlled by another person / ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ବା ଅଧୀନସ୍ଥ ବସ୍ତୁ / ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ବା ଅଧୀନସ୍ଥ ବସ୍ତୁ
levying: raising or gathering an army / ସେନା ସଂଗ୍ରହ କରିବା / ସେନା ସଂଗ୍ରହ କରିବା
powers: military forces / ସାମରିକ ଶକ୍ତି ବା ସେନା / ସାମରିକ ଶକ୍ତି ବା ସେନା
straight: immediately / ତୁରନ୍ତ / ତୁରନ୍ତ
make head: move forward or prepare to face an enemy / ଶତ୍ରୁକୁ ସାମ୍ନା କରିବା ପାଇଁ ଆଗକୁ ବଢ଼ିବା / ଶତ୍ରୁକୁ ସାମ୍ନା କରିବା ପାଇଁ ଆଗକୁ ବଢ଼ିବା
alliance: agreement or partnership between groups or people / ମେଣ୍ଟ ବା ମିଳିତ ସମ୍ପର୍କ / ମେଣ୍ଟ ବା ମିଳିତ ସମ୍ପର୍କ
combined: joined together / ଏକତ୍ରିତ / ଏକତ୍ରିତ
means: resources or available methods / ସାଧନ ବା ଉପାୟ / ସାଧନ ବା ଉପାୟ
presently: immediately or soon / ତୁରନ୍ତ ବା ଶୀଘ୍ର / ତୁରନ୍ତ ବା ଶୀଘ୍ର
council: a meeting held to discuss and decide important matters / ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ବିଷୟରେ ଆଲୋଚନା ଓ ନିଷ୍ପତ୍ତି ପାଇଁ ସଭା / ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ବିଷୟରେ ଆଲୋଚନା ଓ ନିଷ୍ପତ୍ତି ପାଇଁ ସଭା
covert: hidden or secret / ଗୁପ୍ତ / ଗୁପ୍ତ
disclosed: revealed or made known / ପ୍ରକାଶିତ ବା ଜଣାଇଦିଆ / ପ୍ରକାଶିତ ବା ଜଣାଇଦିଆ
perils: dangers or serious risks / ବିପଦ ବା ଗୁରୁତର ଆଶଙ୍କା / ବିପଦ ବା ଗୁରୁତର ଆଶଙ୍କା
answered: dealt with or faced / ମୁକାବିଲା କରାଯିବା / ମୁକାବିଲା କରାଯିବା
at the stake: in a situation where one's safety or life is seriously threatened / ଯେଉଁ ପରିସ୍ଥିତିରେ ଜୀବନ ବା ସୁରକ୍ଷା ଗୁରୁତର ବିପଦରେ ଥାଏ / ଯେଉଁ ପରିସ୍ଥିତିରେ ଜୀବନ ବା ସୁରକ୍ଷା ଗୁରୁତର ବିପଦରେ ଥାଏ
bay'd: surrounded or cornered / ଘେରି ରଖାଯାଇଥିବା / ଘେରି ରଖାଯାଇଥିବା
mischiefs: harmful or evil acts / କ୍ଷତିକାରକ ବା ଦୁଷ୍ଟ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ / କ୍ଷତିକାରକ ବା ଦୁଷ୍ଟ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ

Summary: Act IV, Scene 1

The scene opens in a house in Rome, where Antony, Octavius and Lepidus are seated at a table preparing a list of people who are to be killed. Antony says that the names of several people have already been marked. Octavius then tells Lepidus that his own brother must also die and asks whether Lepidus agrees. Lepidus gives his consent.

Lepidus, however, makes his agreement conditional. He says that Publius, who is Mark Antony’s sister’s son, must also be put to death. Antony immediately agrees and marks Publius for death. He then orders Lepidus to go to Caesar’s house and bring Caesar’s will so that they can examine it and decide how to reduce the amount of money and property that Caesar has left as legacies.

After Lepidus leaves, Antony reveals his true opinion of him. He calls Lepidus a “slight unmeritable man”, meaning that he considers him insignificant and undeserving of an important position. Antony believes that Lepidus is suitable only for carrying out errands. He questions how such a man can be one of the three rulers sharing control of the Roman world.

Octavius admits that he has also thought poorly of Lepidus and says that Lepidus’s opinion was used when deciding who should be included in their list of condemned people. Antony then explains that, although they have given Lepidus important honours and responsibilities, Lepidus will merely carry their burdens without truly sharing their power. Antony compares him to an ass carrying gold. Like a donkey that carries a valuable load and is then relieved of it and sent away, Lepidus, according to Antony, will be used by them and discarded when he is no longer needed.

Octavius points out that Lepidus is nevertheless a tried and brave soldier. Antony responds by comparing Lepidus to his horse. He says that just as he trains and controls his horse—teaching it when to fight, stop and move—Lepidus can also be trained and controlled by them. Antony describes Lepidus as a man without initiative who depends upon worthless things, old ideas and imitations. He says that Lepidus should not even be discussed as an equal partner but merely treated as their property.

Antony then changes the subject to the more immediate danger. He informs Octavius that Brutus and Cassius are raising armies, so they must prepare to confront them. Antony suggests that their alliance should become stronger, their best friends should be brought together, and all their available resources should be used. He and Octavius must meet in council to decide how secret matters can best be revealed and how open dangers can be dealt with.

Octavius agrees. He says that they are in a dangerous position because they are surrounded by many enemies. He is especially suspicious of people who appear friendly but may secretly harbour “millions of mischiefs.” The scene ends with Antony and Octavius leaving together.

सारांश, अंक IV, दृश्य 1

दृश्य रोम के एक घर में आरम्भ होता है, जहाँ एंटनी, ऑक्टेवियस और लेपिडस एक मेज पर बैठे हैं। वे उन लोगों की सूची तैयार कर रहे हैं जिन्हें मार दिया जाना है। एंटनी कहता है कि कई लोगों के नाम पहले ही सूची में लिखे जा चुके हैं। ऑक्टेवियस लेपिडस से कहता है कि उसके अपने भाई को भी मरना होगा और पूछता है कि क्या लेपिडस इससे सहमत है। लेपिडस अपनी सहमति देता है।

लेकिन लेपिडस अपनी सहमति के साथ एक शर्त रखता है। वह कहता है कि पब्लियस, जो मार्क एंटनी की बहन का पुत्र है, उसे भी मरना चाहिए। एंटनी तुरंत सहमत हो जाता है और पब्लियस का नाम भी मृत्यु की सूची में लिख देता है। इसके बाद वह लेपिडस को सीज़र के घर जाकर सीज़र की वसीयत लाने का आदेश देता है। वे वसीयत को देखकर यह तय करना चाहते हैं कि सीज़र ने जो धन और संपत्ति लोगों के लिए छोड़ी है, उसमें से कितना कम किया जा सकता है।

लेपिडस के चले जाने के बाद एंटनी उसके बारे में अपनी वास्तविक राय प्रकट करता है। वह लेपिडस को “slight unmeritable man” कहता है, अर्थात् ऐसा व्यक्ति जिसे वह महत्वहीन और किसी बड़े सम्मान के योग्य नहीं मानता। एंटनी के अनुसार लेपिडस केवल छोटे-मोटे काम करने के योग्य है। वह आश्चर्य करता है कि ऐसा व्यक्ति रोमन संसार के तीन शासकों में से एक होकर उसका हिस्सा कैसे बाँट सकता है।

ऑक्टेवियस स्वीकार करता है कि वह भी लेपिडस के बारे में यही सोचता है। वह कहता है कि जिन लोगों को मृत्यु की सूची में रखा गया है, उनके बारे में निर्णय लेते समय लेपिडस की राय का भी उपयोग किया गया था। एंटनी आगे बताता है कि यद्यपि उन्होंने लेपिडस को सम्मान और महत्वपूर्ण पद दिए हैं, फिर भी वह वास्तव में उनकी शक्ति में भागीदार नहीं है। वह केवल उनका बोझ उठाएगा। एंटनी उसकी तुलना सोना ढोने वाले गधे से करता है। जैसे गधा मूल्यवान सामान ढोता है और सामान पहुँचाने के बाद उसे बोझ से मुक्त करके छोड़ दिया जाता है, उसी प्रकार लेपिडस का उपयोग भी उनके काम के लिए किया जाएगा और बाद में उसे हटा दिया जाएगा।

ऑक्टेवियस यह कहता है कि लेपिडस एक अनुभवी और बहादुर सैनिक है। एंटनी इसके उत्तर में लेपिडस की तुलना अपने घोड़े से करता है। वह कहता है कि जैसे वह अपने घोड़े को प्रशिक्षित करता है और उसे लड़ना, रुकना और सीधे आगे बढ़ना सिखाता है, उसी प्रकार लेपिडस को भी वे अपनी इच्छा के अनुसार प्रशिक्षित और नियंत्रित कर सकते हैं। एंटनी लेपिडस को ऐसे व्यक्ति के रूप में प्रस्तुत करता है जिसमें अपनी कोई विशेष शक्ति या पहल नहीं है और जो दूसरों की छोड़ी हुई तथा पुरानी चीजों और विचारों पर निर्भर करता है। इसलिए एंटनी उसे बराबर का साथी न मानकर केवल अपनी संपत्ति के समान मानता है।

इसके बाद एंटनी तत्काल राजनीतिक और सैन्य खतरे की ओर ध्यान दिलाता है। वह ऑक्टेवियस को बताता है कि ब्रूटस और कैसियस अपनी सेनाएँ एकत्र कर रहे हैं। इसलिए उन्हें उनका सामना करने के लिए तुरंत तैयारी करनी होगी। एंटनी सुझाव देता है कि उनका गठबंधन और मजबूत होना चाहिए, उनके अच्छे मित्रों को साथ लेना चाहिए और अपने सभी साधनों का उपयोग करना चाहिए। वे एक परिषद में बैठकर यह तय करेंगे कि गुप्त मामलों को किस प्रकार सामने लाया जाए और खुले खतरों का सबसे प्रभावी ढंग से सामना कैसे किया जाए।

ऑक्टेवियस इस बात से सहमत होता है। वह कहता है कि वे स्वयं भी खतरे में हैं, क्योंकि चारों ओर बहुत से शत्रु हैं। उसे विशेष रूप से उन लोगों पर संदेह है जो बाहर से मुस्कुराते और मित्रवत दिखाई देते हैं, लेकिन उनके मन में बहुत-सी बुरी योजनाएँ हो सकती हैं। इसके बाद एंटनी और ऑक्टेवियस वहाँ से चले जाते हैं।

ସାରାଂଶ, ଅଙ୍କ IV, ଦୃଶ୍ୟ 1

ଏହି ଦୃଶ୍ୟ ରୋମର ଏକ ଘରେ ଆରମ୍ଭ ହୁଏ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି, ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ ଏବଂ ଲେପିଡସ୍ ଏକ ଟେବୁଲ୍‌ ପାଖରେ ବସିଛନ୍ତି। ସେମାନେ ଯେଉଁ ଲୋକମାନଙ୍କୁ ହତ୍ୟା କରାଯିବ, ସେମାନଙ୍କର ନାମ ତାଲିକାଭୁକ୍ତ କରୁଛନ୍ତି। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି କହେ ଯେ ଅନେକ ଲୋକଙ୍କ ନାମ ଆଗରୁ ହିଁ ଲେଖାଯାଇଛି। ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ କହେ ଯେ ତାଙ୍କ ନିଜ ଭାଇ ମଧ୍ୟ ମରିବାକୁ ପଡ଼ିବ ଏବଂ ସେ ଏଥିରେ ସମ୍ମତ କି ନାହିଁ ପଚାରେ। ଲେପିଡସ୍ ଏଥିରେ ସମ୍ମତ ହୁଏ।

କିନ୍ତୁ ଲେପିଡସ୍ ଏକ ସର୍ତ୍ତ ରଖେ। ସେ କହେ ଯେ ପବ୍ଲିଅସ୍, ଯିଏ ମାର୍କ ଆଣ୍ଟୋନିଙ୍କ ଭଉଣୀର ପୁଅ, ତାକୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ହତ୍ୟା କରାଯିବା ଉଚିତ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ତୁରନ୍ତ ଏଥିରେ ସମ୍ମତ ହୁଏ ଏବଂ ପବ୍ଲିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ନାମକୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ତାଲିକାରେ ଲେଖିଦିଏ। ଏହାପରେ ସେ ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ ସିଜରଙ୍କ ଘରକୁ ଯାଇ ସିଜରଙ୍କ ଇଚ୍ଛାପତ୍ର (will) ଆଣିବାକୁ କହେ। ସେମାନେ ଇଚ୍ଛାପତ୍ର ଦେଖି ସିଜର ଲୋକମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ଛାଡ଼ିଯାଇଥିବା ଧନ ଓ ସମ୍ପତ୍ତିରୁ କେତେକ ଅଂଶ କିପରି କମାଇପାରିବେ, ତାହା ନିର୍ଣ୍ଣୟ କରିବାକୁ ଚାହୁଁଛନ୍ତି।

ଲେପିଡସ୍ ଚାଲିଯିବା ପରେ ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ତାଙ୍କ ବିଷୟରେ ନିଜର ପ୍ରକୃତ ମତ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରେ। ସେ ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ “slight unmeritable man” ବୋଲି କହେ। ଅର୍ଥାତ୍‌, ତାଙ୍କ ମତରେ ଲେପିଡସ୍ ଜଣେ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱହୀନ ଏବଂ ବଡ଼ ସମ୍ମାନ ପାଇବାକୁ ଅଯୋଗ୍ୟ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନିଙ୍କ ମତରେ ଲେପିଡସ୍ କେବଳ ଛୋଟମୋଟ କାମ କରିବା ବା ଆଦେଶ ପାଳନ କରିବା ପାଇଁ ଯୋଗ୍ୟ। ସେ ଆଶ୍ଚର୍ଯ୍ୟ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରେ ଯେ ଏପରି ଜଣେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି କିପରି ରୋମୀୟ ଜଗତର ତିନିଜଣ ଶାସକଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରୁ ଜଣେ ହୋଇପାରେ।

ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ ସ୍ୱୀକାର କରେ ଯେ ସେ ମଧ୍ୟ ଲେପିଡସ୍‌ ବିଷୟରେ ସମାନ ମତ ପୋଷଣ କରେ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି କହେ ଯେ ସେମାନେ ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ ଯେଉଁ ସମ୍ମାନ ଓ ପଦବୀ ଦେଇଛନ୍ତି, ସେଗୁଡ଼ିକ ପ୍ରକୃତ ଶକ୍ତିର ଅଂଶୀଦାର କରିବା ପାଇଁ ନୁହେଁ। ସେ କେବଳ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଭାର ବହିବ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ତାଙ୍କୁ ସୁନା ବୋହୁଥିବା ଗଧ ସହିତ ତୁଳନା କରେ। ଯେପରି ଗଧ ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ ସାମଗ୍ରୀ ବୋହିନିଏ ଏବଂ ଗନ୍ତବ୍ୟସ୍ଥାନରେ ପହଞ୍ଚିଲା ପରେ ତାହାର ଭାର ହଟାଇ ତାକୁ ଛାଡ଼ି ଦିଆଯାଏ, ସେହିପରି ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ସେମାନେ ନିଜ କାମ ପାଇଁ ବ୍ୟବହାର କରି ପରେ ଅବହେଳା କରିବେ।

ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ କହେ ଯେ ଲେପିଡସ୍ ଜଣେ ଅଭିଜ୍ଞ ଏବଂ ସାହସୀ ସୈନିକ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ଏହାର ଉତ୍ତରରେ ଲେପିଡସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ନିଜ ଘୋଡ଼ା ସହିତ ତୁଳନା କରେ। ସେ କହେ ଯେ ସେ ଯେପରି ନିଜ ଘୋଡ଼ାକୁ ପ୍ରଶିକ୍ଷଣ ଦେଇ ଲଢ଼ିବା, ଅଟକିବା ଏବଂ ଆଗକୁ ଯିବା ଶିଖାଏ, ସେହିପରି ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ସେମାନେ ନିଜ ଇଚ୍ଛା ଅନୁସାରେ ପ୍ରଶିକ୍ଷିତ ଓ ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରିତ କରିପାରିବେ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ଲେପିଡସ୍‌କୁ ଏପରି ଜଣେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି ଭାବେ ଦେଖାଏ, ଯାହାର ନିଜସ୍ୱ ଶକ୍ତି ବା ପ୍ରୟାସ କରିବାର କ୍ଷମତା ନାହିଁ। ସେ ଅନ୍ୟମାନଙ୍କ ଛାଡ଼ିଯାଇଥିବା ପୁରୁଣା ଓ ମୂଲ୍ୟହୀନ ବସ୍ତୁ ବା ଧାରଣା ଉପରେ ନିର୍ଭର କରେ। ତେଣୁ ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ତାଙ୍କୁ ସମାନ ସହଯୋଗୀ ନୁହେଁ, ବରଂ ନିଜମାନଙ୍କର ସମ୍ପତ୍ତି ଭାବେ ଦେଖେ।

ଏହାପରେ ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ତୁରନ୍ତ ଆସୁଥିବା ବିପଦ ଦିଗରେ ଧ୍ୟାନ ଦିଏ। ସେ ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍‌କୁ କହେ ଯେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଏବଂ କ୍ୟାସିଅସ୍ ସେନା ସଂଗ୍ରହ କରୁଛନ୍ତି। ତେଣୁ ସେମାନଙ୍କୁ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ ଯୁଦ୍ଧ ପାଇଁ ତୁରନ୍ତ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ ହେବାକୁ ପଡ଼ିବ। ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ପ୍ରସ୍ତାବ ଦିଏ ଯେ ସେମାନଙ୍କର ମେଣ୍ଟ ଆହୁରି ଶକ୍ତିଶାଳୀ ହେବା ଉଚିତ, ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଭଲ ବନ୍ଧୁମାନଙ୍କୁ ସାଙ୍ଗରେ ନେବା ଉଚିତ ଏବଂ ସମସ୍ତ ଉପଲବ୍ଧ ସାଧନକୁ ବ୍ୟବହାର କରିବା ଉଚିତ। ଗୁପ୍ତ ବିଷୟଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ କିପରି ପ୍ରକାଶ କରାଯିବ ଏବଂ ପ୍ରକାଶ୍ୟ ବିପଦଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ କିପରି ମୁକାବିଲା କରାଯିବ, ସେ ବିଷୟରେ ସେମାନେ ଏକ ସଭାରେ ଆଲୋଚନା କରିବେ।

ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ ଏଥିରେ ସମ୍ମତ ହୁଏ। ସେ କହେ ଯେ ସେମାନେ ମଧ୍ୟ ବିପଦରେ ଅଛନ୍ତି, କାରଣ ଚାରିଆଡ଼େ ଅନେକ ଶତ୍ରୁ ଅଛନ୍ତି। ବିଶେଷକରି ଯେଉଁମାନେ ବାହାରୁ ହସି ମିତ୍ରତା ଦେଖାନ୍ତି, କିନ୍ତୁ ମନ ଭିତରେ ଅନେକ ଅସୁବିଧା ଓ ଦୁଷ୍ଟ ଯୋଜନା ରଖିଥାଇପାରନ୍ତି, ସେମାନଙ୍କୁ ନେଇ ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ ଚିନ୍ତିତ। ଏହାପରେ ଆଣ୍ଟୋନି ଓ ଅକ୍ଟାଭିଅସ୍ ସେଠାରୁ ଚାଲିଯାଆନ୍ତି।

Act IV, Scene 1 — Dialogue-wise Text with Paraphrase

Antony: “These many, then, shall die; their names are prick'd.”
Paraphrase: Antony says that all these people are to be killed, and their names have been marked on the death list.

Octavius: “Your brother too must die; consent you, Lepidus?”
Paraphrase: Octavius tells Lepidus that his brother must also be killed and asks whether Lepidus agrees to this decision.

Lepidus: “I do consent—”
Paraphrase: Lepidus agrees to the decision that his brother should be killed.

Octavius: “Prick him down, Antony.”
Paraphrase: Octavius orders Antony to put Lepidus’s brother’s name on the list of those who are to be killed.

Lepidus: “Upon condition Publius shall not live, Who is your sister's son, Mark Antony.”
Paraphrase: Lepidus agrees on the condition that Publius, who is Antony’s sister’s son, must also be killed.

Antony: “He shall not live; look, with a spot I damn him. But, Lepidus, go you to Caesar's house; Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine How to cut off some charge in legacies.”
Paraphrase: Antony agrees that Publius must die and marks his name for death. He then tells Lepidus to go to Caesar’s house and bring Caesar’s will. Antony and the others will examine it and decide how they can reduce the amount of money that Caesar has left as gifts in his will.

Lepidus: “What, shall I find you here?”
Paraphrase: Lepidus asks where he should meet Antony and Octavius after completing the task.

Octavius: “Or here, or at the Capitol.”
Paraphrase: Octavius tells Lepidus that they will either remain there or go to the Capitol.

Antony: “This is a slight unmeritable man, Meet to be sent on errands: is it fit, The three-fold world divided, he should stand One of the three to share it?”
Paraphrase: After Lepidus leaves, Antony calls him an insignificant and undeserving man who is fit only for doing simple errands. Antony questions whether such a man deserves to be one of the three rulers sharing the world among themselves.

Antony: “Octavius, I have seen more days than you: And though we lay these honours on this man, To ease ourselves of divers slanderous loads, He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold, To groan and sweat under the business, Either led or driven, as we point the way; And having brought our treasure where we will, Then take we down his load, and turn him off, Like to the empty ass, to shake his ears, And graze in commons.”
Paraphrase: Antony says that he is older and more experienced than Octavius. He explains that they have given Lepidus important honours mainly to reduce the criticism and blame that might fall upon themselves. Lepidus will merely carry the responsibilities placed upon him, just as a donkey carries a heavy load of gold while being led or driven by its master. Once he has helped them achieve their purpose, they will remove his responsibilities and dismiss him. He will then become useless to them, like a donkey that has been unloaded and left to graze freely.

Octavius: “You may do your will; But he's a tried and valiant soldier.”
Paraphrase: Octavius says that Antony may treat Lepidus as he wishes, but he reminds Antony that Lepidus has proved himself to be a brave and experienced soldier.

Antony: “So is my horse, Octavius; and for that I do appoint him store of provender: It is a creature that I teach to fight, To wind, to stop, to run directly on, His corporal motion govern'd by my spirit.”
Paraphrase: Antony replies that his horse is also a brave and trained creature, but he values it only because he can train and control it. He feeds his horse well and teaches it when to fight, turn, stop and move forward. Its physical movements are completely controlled by Antony’s commands.

Antony: “And now, Octavius, Listen great things:—Brutus and Cassius Are levying powers: we must straight make head: Therefore let our alliance be combined, Our best friends made, our means stretch'd And let us presently go sit in council, How covert matters may be best disclosed, And open perils surest answered.”
Paraphrase: Antony now tells Octavius to pay attention to an important matter. Brutus and Cassius are raising armies, so Antony and Octavius must immediately prepare their own forces. They must strengthen their alliance, gather their best supporters, use all the resources available to them and meet at once to discuss how they can discover hidden dangers and deal safely with the dangers that are already openly threatening them.

Octavius: “Let us do so: for we are at the stake, And bay'd about with many enemies; And some that smile have in their hearts, I fear, Millions of mischiefs.”
Paraphrase: Octavius agrees with Antony. He says that they are in a dangerous position, surrounded by many enemies. He also fears that some people who appear friendly and smile at them may secretly have many harmful plans against them.

[Exeunt]
Paraphrase: Antony and Octavius leave the place.

MCQ Set 1 for Act IV, Scene 1,

1. Where are Antony, Octavius and Lepidus at the beginning of Act IV, Scene 1?
A. At the Capitol
B. At Caesar’s house
C. At a house in Rome
D. At the battlefield
Ans. C. At a house in Rome

2. What are Antony, Octavius and Lepidus doing at the beginning of the scene?
A. Discussing Caesar’s funeral
B. Sitting at a table
C. Preparing for battle
D. Reading Caesar’s will
Ans. B. Sitting at a table

3. What does Antony say about the people whose names have been marked?
A. They shall be pardoned
B. They shall be exiled
C. They shall die
D. They shall be imprisoned
Ans. C. They shall die

4. Whose death does Octavius ask Lepidus to consent to?
A. His own brother’s
B. Caesar’s brother’s
C. Antony’s brother’s
D. Brutus’s brother’s
Ans. A. His own brother’s

5. What does Lepidus say when Octavius asks for his consent?
A. He refuses
B. He asks for time
C. He gives his consent
D. He leaves silently
Ans. C. He gives his consent

6. On what condition does Lepidus agree?
A. Brutus must die
B. Publius must not live
C. Cassius must be arrested
D. Caesar’s will must be destroyed
Ans. B. Publius must not live

7. Who is Publius according to Lepidus?
A. Octavius’s brother
B. Caesar’s son
C. Antony’s sister’s son
D. Cassius’s nephew
Ans. C. Antony’s sister’s son

8. What does Antony say about Publius?
A. He will be pardoned
B. He will be exiled
C. He shall not live
D. He shall be imprisoned
Ans. C. He shall not live

9. What does Antony ask Lepidus to fetch from Caesar’s house?
A. Caesar’s sword
B. Caesar’s will
C. Caesar’s crown
D. Caesar’s letters
Ans. B. Caesar’s will

10. Why does Antony want Caesar’s will brought to them?
A. To publish it immediately
B. To destroy it
C. To determine how to reduce some charges in the legacies
D. To give it to Octavius
Ans. C. To determine how to reduce some charges in the legacies

11. Where does Lepidus ask whether he will find Antony and Octavius?
A. At Caesar’s house
B. At the battlefield
C. At the Capitol or the house
D. At Sardis
Ans. C. At the Capitol or the house

12. Where does Octavius say they may be found?
A. Only at Caesar’s house
B. Either there or at the Capitol
C. At Sardis
D. At Brutus’s camp
Ans. B. Either there or at the Capitol

13. How does Antony describe Lepidus after he leaves?
A. A noble leader
B. A powerful soldier
C. A slight unmeritable man
D. A great statesman
Ans. C. A slight unmeritable man

14. For what purpose does Antony consider Lepidus suitable?
A. For leading armies
B. For being sent on errands
C. For ruling Rome
D. For negotiating with Brutus
Ans. B. For being sent on errands

15. What does Antony question about Lepidus’s position?
A. Whether he should command the army
B. Whether he should go to Caesar’s house
C. Whether he should share the three-fold world
D. Whether he should read Caesar’s will
Ans. C. Whether he should share the three-fold world

16. What does Octavius admit about his earlier opinion of Lepidus?
A. He thought Lepidus was powerful
B. He thought Lepidus was unworthy
C. He thought Lepidus was dangerous
D. He thought Lepidus was dishonest
Ans. B. He thought Lepidus was unworthy

17. What had Lepidus’s voice been used for?
A. Choosing a new ruler
B. Deciding who should be pardoned
C. Supporting those marked for death
D. Making peace with Brutus
Ans. C. Supporting those marked for death

18. What does Antony say he has seen more of than Octavius?
A. Battles
B. Soldiers
C. Days
D. Enemies
Ans. C. Days

19. Why does Antony say they have placed honours on Lepidus?
A. To reward his bravery
B. To ease themselves of various burdens
C. To make him commander
D. To honour Caesar
Ans. B. To ease themselves of various burdens

20. What does Antony compare Lepidus to while describing his usefulness?
A. A dog
B. A lion
C. An ass carrying gold
D. A soldier carrying weapons
Ans. C. An ass carrying gold

21. How does Antony say Lepidus will perform his duties?
A. Independently
B. Under their direction
C. Without any orders
D. Only in Rome
Ans. B. Under their direction

22. What will happen after Lepidus has carried their “treasure” where they want it?
A. He will become king
B. He will receive more honours
C. They will remove his burden and dismiss him
D. He will lead the army
Ans. C. They will remove his burden and dismiss him

23. What does Antony compare Lepidus to after his work is completed?
A. An empty ass
B. A trained horse
C. A wounded soldier
D. A tired lion
Ans. A. An empty ass

24. What does Octavius say in defence of Lepidus?
A. He is a wise ruler
B. He is a tried and valiant soldier
C. He is a great speaker
D. He is Caesar’s loyal friend
Ans. B. He is a tried and valiant soldier

25. What does Antony compare Lepidus to in response to Octavius?
A. His horse
B. His sword
C. His servant
D. His soldier
Ans. A. His horse

26. What does Antony provide for his horse?
A. Armour
B. Store of provender
C. A new saddle
D. Gold
Ans. B. Store of provender

27. What does Antony teach his horse to do?
A. Fight, turn, stop and run directly on
B. Carry gold and weapons
C. Lead an army
D. Guard Caesar’s house
Ans. A. Fight, turn, stop and run directly on

28. What controls the horse’s bodily movement?
A. Its own strength
B. Antony’s spirit
C. The soldiers
D. Octavius’s orders
Ans. B. Antony’s spirit

29. In what way does Antony say Lepidus is like his horse?
A. Lepidus is independent
B. Lepidus must be taught and trained
C. Lepidus is physically strong
D. Lepidus is a great leader
Ans. B. Lepidus must be taught and trained

30. How does Antony describe Lepidus’s spirit?
A. Brave and generous
B. Powerful and ambitious
C. Barren-spirited
D. Noble and courageous
Ans. C. Barren-spirited

31. What does Antony say Lepidus feeds on?
A. Fresh ideas
B. Abjects, orts and imitations
C. Military victories
D. Caesar’s wealth
Ans. B. Abjects, orts and imitations

32. How does Antony finally suggest that Octavius should regard Lepidus?
A. As a great soldier
B. As an equal ruler
C. As a property
D. As a friend
Ans. C. As a property

33. What important information does Antony give Octavius?
A. Caesar’s will has been found
B. Brutus and Cassius are levying forces
C. Lepidus has betrayed them
D. Caesar’s army has returned
Ans. B. Brutus and Cassius are levying forces

34. What does Antony say they must immediately do?
A. Leave Rome
B. Make head
C. Send Lepidus away
D. Read Caesar’s will
Ans. B. Make head

35. What does Antony want to combine?
A. Their enemies
B. Their alliance
C. Caesar’s armies
D. Their legacies
Ans. B. Their alliance

36. What does Antony propose they should do with their best friends?
A. Send them away
B. Make them part of their alliance
C. Imprison them
D. Ignore them
Ans. B. Make them part of their alliance

37. What does Antony say they should stretch?
A. Their armies
B. Their means
C. Their borders
D. Their legacies
Ans. B. Their means

38. What does Antony propose they should do presently?
A. Go to Caesar’s house
B. Sit in council
C. Meet Brutus
D. Leave Rome
Ans. B. Sit in council

39. What does Antony want the council to consider?
A. How to honour Lepidus
B. How covert matters may be disclosed and open perils answered
C. How Caesar’s funeral should be arranged
D. How to divide Rome
Ans. B. How covert matters may be disclosed and open perils answered

40. Why does Octavius agree with Antony’s proposal?
A. They are surrounded by many enemies
B. Lepidus has become powerful
C. Caesar’s will demands it
D. Brutus has surrendered
Ans. A. They are surrounded by many enemies

41. What does Octavius mean when he says they are “at the stake”?
A. They are celebrating victory
B. They are in a dangerous situation
C. They are preparing Caesar’s will
D. They are waiting for Lepidus
Ans. B. They are in a dangerous situation

42. What does Octavius fear about some people who smile at them?
A. They may be afraid
B. They may secretly have mischief in their hearts
C. They may leave Rome
D. They may support Brutus openly
Ans. B. They may secretly have mischief in their hearts

43. Which pair is identified by Antony as raising forces?
A. Antony and Octavius
B. Lepidus and Caesar
C. Brutus and Cassius
D. Caesar and Brutus
Ans. C. Brutus and Cassius

44. Which of the following best describes Antony’s opinion of Lepidus?
A. He considers him an equal leader
B. He considers him useful but lacking independence
C. He considers him a dangerous enemy
D. He considers him the strongest soldier
Ans. B. He considers him useful but lacking independence

45. Which comparison does Antony NOT make in describing Lepidus?
A. An ass carrying gold
B. His horse
C. A lion
D. A property
Ans. C. A lion

46. Which statement is TRUE according to the scene?
A. Lepidus refuses to condemn Publius.
B. Octavius considers Lepidus a valiant soldier.
C. Antony believes Lepidus should rule independently.
D. Brutus and Cassius have surrendered.
Ans. B. Octavius considers Lepidus a valiant soldier.

47. Which statement is NOT TRUE according to the scene?
A. Antony orders Lepidus to fetch Caesar’s will.
B. Antony considers Lepidus suitable for errands.
C. Octavius says that Brutus and Cassius have surrendered.
D. Octavius fears hidden enemies.
Ans. C. Octavius says that Brutus and Cassius have surrendered.

48. What is the main concern that develops towards the end of Scene 1?
A. Caesar’s funeral
B. The threat from Brutus and Cassius
C. Lepidus’s family
D. The reading of Caesar’s will
Ans. B. The threat from Brutus and Cassius

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS – SET 2

1. Which of the following gives the correct sequence of events?
A. Lepidus leaves → Antony discusses Lepidus → Publius is condemned → Antony discusses Brutus and Cassius
B. Publius is condemned → Lepidus is sent to fetch Caesar’s will → Lepidus leaves → Antony criticises him
C. Antony discusses Brutus and Cassius → Lepidus leaves → Publius is condemned → Octavius responds
D. Octavius discusses enemies → Lepidus leaves → Antony condemns Publius → Caesar’s will is fetched
Ans. B. Publius is condemned → Lepidus is sent to fetch Caesar’s will → Lepidus leaves → Antony criticises him

2. What happens immediately after Lepidus consents to his brother’s death?
A. Antony sends him to Caesar’s house.
B. Octavius orders Antony to prick his name down.
C. Lepidus leaves Rome.
D. Antony begins discussing Brutus and Cassius.
Ans. B. Octavius orders Antony to prick his name down.

3. Arrange the following events in the correct order:

1. Antony agrees that Publius shall die.

2. Lepidus is asked to fetch Caesar’s will.

3. Lepidus leaves.

4. Antony questions Lepidus’s fitness to share power.
A. 1, 2, 3, 4
B. 2, 1, 3, 4
C. 1, 3, 2, 4
D. 3, 1, 2, 4
Ans. A. 1, 2, 3, 4

4. Which event occurs before Antony compares Lepidus to an ass?
A. Octavius calls Lepidus a valiant soldier.
B. Lepidus is sent to fetch Caesar’s will.
C. Brutus and Cassius begin their attack.
D. Antony and Octavius leave for the Capitol.
Ans. B. Lepidus is sent to fetch Caesar’s will.

5. What happens after Lepidus asks, “What, shall I find you here?”
A. Antony says that he will go to Caesar’s house.
B. Octavius says they will be either there or at the Capitol.
C. Lepidus refuses to leave.
D. Antony begins praising Lepidus.
Ans. B. Octavius says they will be either there or at the Capitol.

6. Which is the correct sequence concerning Lepidus?
A. Antony praises him → Lepidus leaves → Octavius criticises him → Antony compares him to a horse
B. Lepidus is sent on an errand → he leaves → Antony calls him unmeritable → Antony compares him to an ass
C. Lepidus refuses the errand → Octavius sends him away → Antony praises his courage → he returns
D. Octavius condemns Lepidus → Antony sends him to fetch the will → Lepidus leaves → Octavius praises him
Ans. B. Lepidus is sent on an errand → he leaves → Antony calls him unmeritable → Antony compares him to an ass

7. What follows Antony’s comparison of Lepidus to an ass carrying gold?
A. Octavius says Lepidus is a tried and valiant soldier.
B. Lepidus returns with Caesar’s will.
C. Antony dismisses Octavius.
D. Octavius leaves for the Capitol.
Ans. A. Octavius says Lepidus is a tried and valiant soldier.

8. What does Antony say immediately after Octavius calls Lepidus a “tried and valiant soldier”?
A. He praises Lepidus’s military skill.
B. He compares Lepidus with his horse.
C. He sends Lepidus back to Caesar’s house.
D. He agrees to divide power equally.
Ans. B. He compares Lepidus with his horse.

9. Which sequence correctly describes Antony’s discussion of Lepidus?
A. Ass comparison → unmeritable man → horse comparison → “property”
B. Unmeritable man → ass comparison → horse comparison → “property”
C. Horse comparison → ass comparison → unmeritable man → “property”
D. “Property” → horse comparison → ass comparison → unmeritable man
Ans. B. Unmeritable man → ass comparison → horse comparison → “property”

10. What happens after Antony calls Lepidus “a property”?
A. He begins discussing Brutus and Cassius.
B. Lepidus returns with the will.
C. Octavius leaves Rome.
D. Antony ends the alliance.
Ans. A. He begins discussing Brutus and Cassius.

11. Arrange these developments in the correct order:

1. Antony says Brutus and Cassius are levying powers.

2. Antony calls for the alliance to be strengthened.

3. Antony proposes sitting in council.

4. Octavius agrees.
A. 1, 2, 3, 4
B. 2, 1, 4, 3
C. 1, 3, 2, 4
D. 3, 1, 2, 4
Ans. A. 1, 2, 3, 4

12. What does Antony propose after mentioning Brutus and Cassius?
A. That they should surrender.
B. That their alliance should be combined and their means stretched.
C. That Lepidus should return immediately.
D. That Caesar’s will should be ignored.
Ans. B. That their alliance should be combined and their means stretched.

13. What follows Antony’s proposal to sit in council?
A. Octavius says they are surrounded by enemies.
B. Lepidus returns.
C. Antony leaves for Caesar’s house.
D. Brutus arrives.
Ans. A. Octavius says they are surrounded by enemies.

14. Which event occurs last in the scene?
A. Antony calls Lepidus a property.
B. Octavius praises Lepidus as a soldier.
C. Antony proposes that they sit in council.
D. Octavius speaks of enemies who smile but harbour mischief.
Ans. D. Octavius speaks of enemies who smile but harbour mischief.

15. “He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold” contains which literary device?
A. Simile
B. Metaphor
C. Irony
D. Apostrophe
Ans. A. Simile

16. In the comparison of Lepidus to an ass carrying gold, what does the image suggest?
A. Lepidus is rich.
B. Lepidus carries responsibilities without truly controlling them.
C. Lepidus is a successful merchant.
D. Lepidus is physically strong.
Ans. B. Lepidus carries responsibilities without truly controlling them.

17. “Like to the empty ass, to shake his ears” contains:
A. Simile
B. Personification
C. Pun
D. Oxymoron
Ans. A. Simile

18. Antony’s comparison of Lepidus to his horse is primarily an example of:
A. Extended comparison
B. Onomatopoeia
C. Paradox
D. Apostrophe
Ans. A. Extended comparison

19. “So is my horse, Octavius” develops which comparison?
A. Lepidus with a horse
B. Antony with Caesar
C. Octavius with a soldier
D. Brutus with an ass
Ans. A. Lepidus with a horse

20. “A barren-spirited fellow” is best understood as:
A. Metaphorical description
B. Simile
C. Onomatopoeia
D. Alliteration only
Ans. A. Metaphorical description

21. “Black sentence and proscription” uses “black” to suggest:
A. A literal colour
B. The grim and deadly nature of the decree
C. Lepidus’s clothing
D. Caesar’s house
Ans. B. The grim and deadly nature of the decree

22. “We are at the stake” is an example of:
A. Metaphorical expression
B. Simile
C. Pun
D. Personification
Ans. A. Metaphorical expression

23. “Bay’d about with many enemies” creates the image of:
A. A person surrounded or cornered by enemies
B. A peaceful gathering
C. A successful army returning home
D. A horse being trained
Ans. A. A person surrounded or cornered by enemies

24. “Millions of mischiefs” is an example of:
A. Hyperbolic expression
B. Simile
C. Pun
D. Understatement
Ans. A. Hyperbolic expression

25. “Led or driven, as we point the way” emphasises:
A. Lepidus’s independence
B. Antony and Octavius’s control over Lepidus
C. Lepidus’s leadership
D. Brutus’s authority
Ans. B. Antony and Octavius’s control over Lepidus

26. The repeated imagery of the ass and the horse mainly serves to:
A. Humiliate and diminish Lepidus
B. Praise Lepidus’s intelligence
C. Describe the Roman countryside
D. Explain military transportation
Ans. A. Humiliate and diminish Lepidus

27. “Some that smile have in their hearts … mischiefs” suggests a contrast between:
A. Appearance and hidden intention
B. Wealth and poverty
C. War and peace
D. Youth and age
Ans. A. Appearance and hidden intention

28. Statement I: Antony considers Lepidus unsuitable for genuine political partnership.
Statement II: Antony describes him as fit mainly to be sent on errands.
A. Both are true, and II supports I.
B. Both are true, but II does not support I.
C. I is true, but II is false.
D. I is false, but II is true.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II supports I.

29. Statement I: Antony believes Lepidus will eventually be discarded.
Statement II: He compares Lepidus to an ass that is relieved of its load after carrying the treasure where required.
A. Both are true, and II explains I.
B. Both are true, but II does not explain I.
C. I is true, but II is false.
D. Both are false.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II explains I.

30. Statement I: Antony believes Lepidus is controlled by others.
Statement II: Antony says Lepidus must be taught, trained and ordered to go forth.
A. Both are true, and II explains I.
B. Both are true, but II is unrelated.
C. I is false, but II is true.
D. Both are false.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II explains I.

31. Statement I: Octavius completely rejects Antony’s criticism of Lepidus.
Statement II: Octavius nevertheless calls Lepidus a tried and valiant soldier.
A. Both are true.
B. Both are false.
C. I is false, but II is true.
D. I is true, but II is false.
Ans. C. I is false, but II is true.

32. Statement I: Antony regards Lepidus as lacking independent spirit.
Statement II: He calls him a “barren-spirited fellow.”
A. Both are true, and II supports I.
B. Both are true, but II does not support I.
C. I is true, but II is false.
D. Both are false.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II supports I.

33. Statement I: Antony considers the political situation dangerous.
Statement II: He says Brutus and Cassius are raising forces against them.
A. Both are true, and II supports I.
B. Both are true, but II contradicts I.
C. I is true, but II is false.
D. I is false, but II is true.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II supports I.

34. Statement I: Antony wants to strengthen the alliance with Octavius.
Statement II: He proposes combining their alliance, friends and resources.
A. Both are true, and II explains I.
B. Both are true, but II is unrelated.
C. I is false, but II is true.
D. Both are false.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II explains I.

35. Statement I: Octavius believes all their enemies openly show hostility.
Statement II: He fears that some people who smile secretly harbour mischief.
A. Both are true.
B. Both are false.
C. I is true, but II is false.
D. I is false, but II is true.
Ans. D. I is false, but II is true.

36. Statement I: Antony and Octavius intend to discuss how to deal with hidden and open dangers.
Statement II: Antony proposes that they sit in council.
A. Both are true, and II explains I.
B. Both are true, but II does not support I.
C. I is false, but II is true.
D. Both are false.
Ans. A. Both are true, and II explains I.

37. Statement I: Lepidus is trusted with an important military decision.
Statement II: Antony describes him as someone who must be directed and trained.
A. Both are true.
B. Both are false.
C. I is true, but II is false.
D. I is false, but II is true.
Ans. D. I is false, but II is true.

38. Which statements correctly describe Antony’s treatment of Lepidus?

1. He sends Lepidus to fetch Caesar’s will.

2. He questions Lepidus’s worthiness to share power.

3. He praises Lepidus’s independent judgement.

4. He compares Lepidus to an animal that can be controlled.
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 4 only

39. Which statements correctly describe the treatment of Publius?

1. Lepidus mentions Publius as a condition.

2. Publius is Antony’s sister’s son.

3. Antony agrees that Publius shall live.

4. Antony condemns Publius to death.
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 4 only

40. Which statements are associated with Antony’s description of the ass?

1. The ass carries gold.

2. It groans and sweats under its business.

3. It chooses its own direction.

4. It is eventually relieved of its load.
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 4 only

41. Which statements correctly describe Antony’s comparison of Lepidus with his horse?

1. Antony teaches his horse to fight.

2. The horse can be taught to stop and run.

3. Antony presents the horse as completely independent.

4. Antony uses the comparison to diminish Lepidus.
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 4 only

42. Which statements correctly describe Antony’s view of Lepidus?

1. He considers him an unmeritable man.

2. He regards him as useful for errands.

3. He sees him as a strong independent political leader.

4. He calls him “a barren-spirited fellow.”
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 4 only

43. Which statements correctly describe the political situation?

1. Brutus and Cassius are levying forces.

2. Antony wants their alliance strengthened.

3. Antony wants their best friends brought together.

4. Antony believes there are no dangers around them.
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 3 only

44. Which measures does Antony propose in response to the threat?

1. Combining their alliance

2. Making their best friends

3. Stretching their resources

4. Immediately abandoning Rome
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 3 only

45. Which statements correctly describe Octavius’s final response?

1. He agrees to Antony’s proposal.

2. He says they are surrounded by enemies.

3. He fears hidden mischief from some smiling people.

4. He says they have no enemies.
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 3 only

46. Which statements are correct about the handling of Caesar’s will?

1. Antony asks Lepidus to fetch it.

2. It is to be brought to them.

3. They intend to determine how to reduce some charges in legacies.

4. Lepidus is asked to destroy it.
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. A. 1, 2 and 3 only

47. What mood is created when Antony and Octavius agree that certain men must die?
A. Grim and ruthless
B. Joyful and celebratory
C. Humorous and relaxed
D. Compassionate and forgiving
Ans. A. Grim and ruthless

48. What is the dominant attitude of Antony towards Lepidus?
A. Contempt and distrust
B. Admiration and affection
C. Fear and submission
D. Gratitude and respect
Ans. A. Contempt and distrust

49. What attitude does Antony display when he calls Lepidus “a slight unmeritable man”?
A. Disdain
B. Sympathy
C. Admiration
D. Gratitude
Ans. A. Disdain

50. What mood is conveyed by Antony’s description of Lepidus as an ass carrying gold?
A. Mockery and contempt
B. Sympathy and concern
C. Celebration and pride
D. Fear and uncertainty
Ans. A. Mockery and contempt

51. What attitude is suggested by Antony’s statement that Lepidus will be turned off after carrying the required “treasure”?
A. Exploitative and calculating
B. Generous and protective
C. Respectful and affectionate
D. Indifferent to politics
Ans. A. Exploitative and calculating

52. What is Octavius’s attitude when he calls Lepidus a “tried and valiant soldier”?
A. More respectful towards Lepidus than Antony is
B. Completely hostile towards Lepidus
C. Fearful of Lepidus
D. Humorous about Lepidus
Ans. A. More respectful towards Lepidus than Antony is

53. What mood emerges when Antony begins discussing Brutus and Cassius?
A. Urgency and political concern
B. Relaxation and amusement
C. Celebration and confidence
D. Sympathy and grief
Ans. A. Urgency and political concern

54. What emotion is suggested by Antony’s call to “make head” against Brutus and Cassius?
A. Determination to face the threat
B. Desire to surrender
C. Fear of military action
D. Indifference to the opposition
Ans. A. Determination to face the threat

55. What mood dominates Octavius’s final speech?
A. Anxiety and vigilance
B. Happiness and relief
C. Anger against Lepidus
D. Humour and amusement
Ans. A. Anxiety and vigilance

56. What feeling is suggested by Octavius’s fear that some who smile have “millions of mischiefs” in their hearts?
A. Suspicion
B. Gratitude
C. Joy
D. Compassion
Ans. A. Suspicion

57. Which of the following is NOT TRUE about Antony’s treatment of Publius?
A. Publius is mentioned by Lepidus.
B. Publius is Antony’s sister’s son.
C. Antony agrees that Publius should live.
D. Antony condemns Publius.
Ans. C. Antony agrees that Publius should live.

58. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Lepidus’s errand?
A. Antony sends Lepidus to Caesar’s house.
B. Lepidus is asked to fetch the will.
C. The will is to be used in determining charges in legacies.
D. Lepidus is sent to meet Brutus and Cassius.
Ans. D. Lepidus is sent to meet Brutus and Cassius.

59. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Antony’s opinion of Lepidus?
A. He calls him unmeritable.
B. He considers him fit for errands.
C. He regards him as an independent political equal.
D. He describes him as barren-spirited.
Ans. C. He regards him as an independent political equal.

60. Which of the following is NOT TRUE about the ass comparison?
A. The ass bears gold.
B. The ass groans and sweats under its business.
C. The ass is allowed to decide where to go.
D. The ass is eventually relieved of its load.
Ans. C. The ass is allowed to decide where to go.

61. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Antony’s horse comparison?
A. Antony teaches his horse to fight.
B. The horse is taught to stop and run.
C. Antony compares Lepidus to such a creature.
D. Antony presents Lepidus as the master controlling the horse.
Ans. D. Antony presents Lepidus as the master controlling the horse.

62. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Lepidus according to Antony?
A. He must be taught and trained.
B. He must be ordered to go forth.
C. He is described as a barren-spirited fellow.
D. He is praised as the most independent member of the alliance.
Ans. D. He is praised as the most independent member of the alliance.

63. Which of the following is NOT TRUE about Brutus and Cassius?
A. They are levying forces.
B. Antony regards them as a serious threat.
C. Antony proposes strengthening his alliance because of them.
D. Antony says they have no military power.
Ans. D. Antony says they have no military power.

64. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Antony’s proposed response to the threat?
A. He wants their alliance combined.
B. He wants their best friends made.
C. He wants their resources stretched.
D. He wants them to ignore the threat.
Ans. D. He wants them to ignore the threat.

65. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Octavius’s final remarks?
A. He agrees with Antony’s proposal.
B. He says they are surrounded by many enemies.
C. He fears that some smiling people conceal mischief.
D. He believes everyone around them is openly loyal.
Ans. D. He believes everyone around them is openly loyal.

66. Which of the following is NOT TRUE about the political atmosphere at the end of the scene?
A. Antony and Octavius feel threatened.
B. Brutus and Cassius are raising forces.
C. Antony wants to discuss how hidden matters may be disclosed.
D. Antony and Octavius believe there is no need for preparation.
Ans. D. Antony and Octavius believe there is no need for preparation.

67. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Antony and Octavius’s attitude towards Lepidus?
A. Antony regards Lepidus as useful but controllable.
B. Antony compares him to an animal under direction.
C. Octavius acknowledges that he is a tried and valiant soldier.
D. Both men describe Lepidus as an equal political genius.
Ans. D. Both men describe Lepidus as an equal political genius.

68. Which of the following is NOT TRUE about the ending of the scene?
A. Antony proposes that they sit in council.
B. They intend to deal with hidden and open dangers.
C. Octavius agrees to the proposal.
D. They decide to dismiss the threat posed by Brutus and Cassius.
Ans. D. They decide to dismiss the threat posed by Brutus and Cassius.

“Who said?” / “Who said to whom?”

1. “These many, then, shall die; their names are prick'd.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius and Lepidus.

2. “Your brother too must die; consent you, Lepidus?” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Lepidus.

3. “I do consent—” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Lepidus said this to Octavius.

4. “Prick him down, Antony.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

5. “Upon condition Publius shall not live.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Lepidus said this to Antony.

6. “Who is your sister’s son, Mark Antony.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Lepidus said this to Antony.

7. “He shall not live; look, with a spot I damn him.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Lepidus.

8. “But, Lepidus, go you to Caesar’s house.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Lepidus.

9. “Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine / How to cut off some charge in legacies.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Lepidus.

10. “What, shall I find you here?” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Lepidus said this to Antony and Octavius.

11. “Or here, or at the Capitol.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Lepidus.

12. “This is a slight unmeritable man.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

13. “Meet to be sent on errands.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

14. “Is it fit, / The three-fold world divided, he should stand / One of the three to share it?” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

15. “So you thought him.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

16. “And took his voice who should be prick’d to die.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

17. “In our black sentence and proscription.” Who said this?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

18. “Octavius, I have seen more days than you.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

19. “He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

20. “To groan and sweat under the business.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

21. “Either led or driven, as we point the way.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

22. “Then take we down his load, and turn him off.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

23. “Like to the empty ass, to shake his ears, / And graze in commons.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

24. “You may do your will.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

25. “But he’s a tried and valiant soldier.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

26. “So is my horse, Octavius.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

27. “I do appoint him store of provender.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

28. “It is a creature that I teach to fight, / To wind, to stop, to run directly on.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about his horse to Octavius.

29. “His corporal motion govern’d by my spirit.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about his horse to Octavius.

30. “And, in some taste, is Lepidus but so.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

31. “He must be taught and train’d and bid go forth.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

32. “A barren-spirited fellow.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

33. “One that feeds / On abjects, orts and imitations.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this about Lepidus to Octavius.

34. “Do not talk of him, / But as a property.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

35. “Listen great things:—Brutus and Cassius / Are levying powers.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

36. “We must straight make head.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

37. “Therefore let our alliance be combined.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

38. “Our best friends made, our means stretch’d.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

39. “Let us presently go sit in council.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

40. “How covert matters may be best disclosed, / And open perils surest answered.” Who said this?
Ans. Antony said this to Octavius.

41. “Let us do so.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

42. “For we are at the stake.” Who said this?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

43. “And bay’d about with many enemies.” Who said this?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

44. “And some that smile have in their hearts, I fear, / Millions of mischiefs.” Who said this? To whom?
Ans. Octavius said this to Antony.

Summary:

सारांश

ସାରାଂଶ

TEXT WITH ENGLISH PARAPHRASE

Antony: “These many, then, shall die; their names are prick'd.”
Paraphrase: Antony says that all the people whose names they have selected will be put to death. Their names have already been marked or written down on the list of people condemned to die.

Octavius: “Your brother too must die; consent you, Lepidus?”
Paraphrase: Octavius tells Lepidus that Lepidus’s own brother must also be put to death. He asks Lepidus whether he agrees to this cruel decision.

Lepidus: “I do consent—”
Paraphrase: Lepidus agrees to the decision. He accepts that his own brother may be killed.

Octavius: “Prick him down, Antony.”
Paraphrase: Octavius orders Antony to mark or write Lepidus’s brother’s name on the death list.

Lepidus: “Upon condition Publius shall not live, Who is your sister's son, Mark Antony.”
Paraphrase: Lepidus agrees to the death of his brother only on one condition: Publius, who is Antony’s sister’s son and therefore Antony’s nephew, must also be condemned to death.

Antony: “He shall not live; look, with a spot I damn him. But, Lepidus, go you to Caesar's house; Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine How to cut off some charge in legacies.”
Paraphrase: Antony agrees that Publius shall also be killed. He marks Publius’s name with a spot, thereby condemning him to death. Antony then orders Lepidus to go to Caesar’s house and bring Caesar’s will. Antony and Octavius intend to examine the will and decide how they can reduce some of the money Caesar has left as gifts to the Roman people and others.

Lepidus: “What, shall I find you here?”
Paraphrase: Lepidus asks Antony and Octavius whether he should return to this same place after bringing Caesar’s will.

Octavius: “Or here, or at the Capitol.”
Paraphrase: Octavius replies that Lepidus may find them either there or at the Capitol. In other words, Antony and Octavius have not decided exactly where they will be, but they will either remain there or move to the Capitol.

Antony: “This is a slight unmeritable man, Meet to be sent on errands: is it fit, The three-fold world divided, he should stand One of the three to share it?”
Paraphrase: After Lepidus leaves, Antony insults him by calling him an insignificant and undeserving man. Antony says that Lepidus is fit only to be sent on simple errands. He questions whether such a weak and unworthy man should really be one of the three men who are going to divide and rule the Roman world among themselves.

Octavius: “So you thought him; And took his voice who should be prick'd to die, In our black sentence and proscription.”
Paraphrase: Octavius reminds Antony that Antony himself had previously regarded Lepidus as worthy enough to participate in their decisions. Antony had accepted Lepidus’s opinion when they were deciding whose names should be placed on their deadly list of condemned persons. Octavius therefore points out the contradiction in Antony’s attitude towards Lepidus.

Antony compares Lepidus to a donkey carrying a valuable load of gold. The donkey carries the heavy treasure, but it does not own or control it; it simply carries whatever its master puts on its back. In the same way, Lepidus will carry the responsibilities and burdens that Antony and Octavius place upon him. He will act only when they lead or order him to act.

Once Lepidus has helped them achieve their purposes and has carried their political “load” to the desired destination, Antony and Octavius will remove his responsibilities and dismiss him. He will then become as useless to them as an unloaded donkey that is turned loose to shake off its burden and graze in the common fields. The comparison shows Antony’s contempt for Lepidus and his intention to use him merely as a political tool.

Octavius: “You may do your will; But he's a tried and valiant soldier.”
Paraphrase: Octavius says that Antony may deal with Lepidus as he wishes, but he reminds Antony that Lepidus is not completely worthless. He is a tested, experienced and brave soldier who has already proved his courage in military service.

Antony: “So is my horse, Octavius; and for that I do appoint him store of provender: It is a creature that I teach to fight, To wind, to stop, to run directly on, His corporal motion govern'd by my spirit.”
Paraphrase: Antony rejects Octavius’s argument by comparing Lepidus to his own horse. He says that his horse is also brave and well trained, and for that reason he gives it plenty of food. Yet Antony does not regard the horse as an equal; he regards it as a creature that he can train and control.

He teaches the horse when to fight, when to turn, when to stop and when to move straight forward. The horse’s physical movements are completely controlled by Antony’s will and commands. Through this comparison, Antony suggests that Lepidus is similarly useful only because he can be trained, directed and controlled by Antony and Octavius.

Antony says that Lepidus is attracted to things that are worthless, inferior or already rejected by others. He also follows old and worn-out fashions or ideas instead of creating anything original. Therefore, Antony tells Octavius not to think of Lepidus as an equal political partner or an important individual. He should be regarded merely as “a property”—something that Antony and Octavius can own, use and control for their own purposes.

Antony says that they must strengthen their alliance, gather their most trusted friends and supporters, and use all the resources available to them. They must also meet at once in council and make plans. Their purpose is to discover hidden or secret dangers before they become serious and to find the safest and most effective ways of dealing with dangers that are already openly threatening them.

Octavius: “Let us do so: for we are at the stake, And bay'd about with many enemies; And some that smile have in their hearts, I fear, Millions of mischiefs.”
Paraphrase: Octavius agrees with Antony's plan. He says that they are in a very dangerous situation. He uses the image of an animal “at the stake,” surrounded and threatened by enemies. He feels that they are surrounded by many enemies and are in great danger.

Octavius also warns Antony that not everyone who appears friendly can be trusted. Some people may smile at them and pretend to be their friends, while secretly having countless harmful plans against them. Thus, Octavius is aware that their enemies may include both open opponents and secret enemies.

[Exeunt]
Paraphrase: Antony and Octavius leave the scene together to make further plans for dealing with the forces of Brutus and Cassius.